ISLAMABAD: Categorically ruling out a dialogue with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said though dialogue was a key to evolving democracy, it could not be held with “anarchists and arsonists” in the garb of politicians.
The prime minister’s statement came after the former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan on Friday appealed for immediate talks with state officials. Shehbaz said dialogue was deeply embedded in the political process, which helped democracy mature and evolve. He said many political and constitutional breakthroughs occurred when political leaders sat across the table to craft a consensus.
“However, there is a major difference here, the anarchists and arsonists who wear the garb of politicians and attack the symbols of the State do not qualify for a dialogue,” he said. The prime minister emphasised that such people should rather be held to account for their militant actions. He also termed it a prevalent practice even in developed democracies.
Trump said he and Erdogan had “excellent” relationship during his first term as US president from 2017 to 2021
India’s demand to stop funding from ADB is part of larger effort to increase economic pressure on Pakistan
Carrier said it was altering its flight schedule and flight plans with destinations
Government’s cost-cutting measures have already resulted in savings of Rs3,400 billion
Pakistan rejects accusations, and has repeatedly made clear it will respond with force to any aggression by India
Relations have deteriorated since former prime minister Sheikh was ousted in August following mass protests